How Dont’a Hightower’s Return Affects Other Patriots Linebackers

How Dont’a Hightower’s Return Affects Other Patriots Linebackers

Dont’a Hightower’s influence on the New England Patriots’ defense can’t be understated. The sixth-year linebacker has been a monster for the Patriots since arriving in 2012, and he’s since become the leader of New England’s defense. With this in mind, Hightower’s activation off the physically unable to perform list Tuesday provided a major lift for the Pats. Newcomer David Harris especially is excited for Hightower to be back, as the veteran LB has used Hightower as a mentor heading into his first season with the Patriots. To hear NESN’s Matt Chatham break down the importance of Hightower within New England’s defense, check out ... NESN.com

Dont’a Hightower Mum On Patriots D’s Lack Of Playmakers: ‘That’s Out Of My Pay Grade’

Dont’a Hightower Mum On Patriots D’s Lack Of Playmakers: ‘That’s Out Of My Pay Grade’

The New England Patriots’ defense has been huge weakness for the team this season, but the players are leaving that topic up to coach Bill Belichick. New England traded linebacker Chandler Jones this offseason, traded linebacker Jamie Collins during their Week 9 bye and made defensive end Jabaal Sheard inactive before Sunday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers without any explanation. Dont’a Hightower joined “Ordway, Merloni & Fauria” on Monday and was asked if he was “comfortable” with the Patriots’ lack of playmakers on defense, but the defensive captain didn’t offer much insight. “Whether I am comfortable or not, that’... NESN.com

Dont’a Hightower, Danny Amendola Among Patriots’ Stars In Win Over Jets

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The New England Patriots proved one thing Sunday: They can win ugly. Playing one of the worst teams in the NFL, the Patriots beat the New York Jets just 17-16 as they had trouble moving the ball on offense and stopping the Jets’ rushing attack. The Patriots’ offensive line allowed four sacks to the Jets as quarterback Tom Brady was getting beat up all game. With all the negatives out of the way, here are this week’s stars of the game: DANNY AMENDOLAAmendola didn’t replace Julian Edelman, who was out with a concussion, but he filled in admirably as the Patriots’ slot/Z receiver. Amendola caught eight passes on 11 targets for 63 yards. He